MYXOMATOSIS AND YOUR RABBIT by Kazmin Brodel |
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| Spring has sprung and that means April showers. Unfortunately, this warm, damp weather provides the perfect conditions for biting insects such as mosquitoes and fleas. It is these insects which have the potential to carry the disease Myxomatosis, presenting a real threat to domesticated rabbits.
Myxomatosis is a potentially fatal disease often seen in wild rabbits. Symptoms include the growth of tumours around the head and genital areas of the rabbit, acute conjunctivitis leading to blindness, inappetence and fever. Secondary, bacterial infections often occur and result in pneumonia. Depending on the individual rabbit’s natural resistance, death may occur as quickly as within 48 hours of contracting the disease or may not occur for up to 14 days. There is currently no treatment for Myxomatosis; it is recommended that rabbits suffering from the disease be euthanized to avoid any possible suffering. Myxomatosis can be spread by either: • Direct contact between domestic rabbits and wild, infected rabbits. • Mosquitoes or fleas biting a domestic rabbit after having fed from an infected rabbit elsewhere, either domesticated or wild. The virus is physically carried on the mouthparts of the insect. Given the rural nature of Sunninghill and the surrounding area with its extensive population of wild rabbits, it is possible for pet rabbits to contract the disease through both of these methods. Due to this high risk, we strongly recommend bi-annual Myxomatosis vaccinations. The Myxomatosis vaccination costs £23 and is administered by injection after the vet has checked that your rabbit is in full health. Immunisation is required every 6 months and should always be done at least a week apart from the VHD (Viral Haemorrhagic Disease) vaccination. Please call us on 01344 299899 if you have any enquiries or to book an appointment! |
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